Middlesex County, Virginia
The dominant drainage class is Well drained and the dominant hydrologic group is C (slow infiltration, moderate runoff). This report summarizes the major soil map units across the survey area to help you understand what to expect when buying, building, or gardening in Middlesex County, Virginia.
| Soil Map Unit | Acres | Drainage | Hydro Group | Dwellings | Septic |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Water | 28K | Not rated | Not rated | ||
| Emporia loam, 2 to 6 percent slopes | 9K | Well drained | C | Somewhat limited | Very limited |
| Kempsville sandy loam, 2 to 6 percent slopes | 6K | Well drained | B | Not limited | Somewhat limited |
| Suffolk-Remlik complex, 15 to 45 percent slopes | 5K | Well drained | B | Very limited | Very limited |
| Emporia-Nevarc complex, 15 to 45 percent slopes | 5K | Well drained | C | Very limited | Very limited |
| Slagle silt loam, 2 to 6 percent slopes | 5K | Moderately well drained | C | Very limited | Very limited |
| Suffolk fine sandy loam, 2 to 6 percent slopes | 4K | Well drained | B | Not limited | Very limited |
| Kinston-Bibb complex | 4K | Poorly drained | B/D | Very limited | Very limited |
| Emporia-Nevarc complex, 6 to 15 percent slopes | 3K | Well drained | C | Somewhat limited | Very limited |
| Suffolk fine sandy loam, 0 to 2 percent slopes | 3K | Well drained | B | Not limited | Very limited |
| Slagle silt loam, 0 to 2 percent slopes | 3K | Moderately well drained | C | Very limited | Very limited |
| Eunola loam | 2K | Moderately well drained | C | Very limited | Very limited |
| Suffolk-Remlik complex, 6 to 15 percent slopes | 2K | Well drained | B | Somewhat limited | Very limited |
| Myatt loam | 1K | Poorly drained | B/D | Very limited | Very limited |
| Bethera and Daleville soils | 1K | Poorly drained | C/D | Very limited | Very limited |
| Pocaty muck | 1K | Very poorly drained | B/D | Very limited | Very limited |
| Ackwater silt loam | 1K | Moderately well drained | C | Very limited | Very limited |
| Bama loam, 2 to 6 percent slopes | 896 | Well drained | B | Not limited | Somewhat limited |
| Emporia loam, 0 to 2 percent slopes | 777 | Well drained | C | Somewhat limited | Very limited |
| Kempsville sandy loam, 0 to 2 percent slopes | 627 | Well drained | B | Not limited | Somewhat limited |
What This Means
Building & Foundations
About 33% of soils have significant building limitations, while the rest are generally suitable. Check specific sites carefully — conditions vary across the area.
Septic Systems
About 58% of soils are rated "very limited" for septic absorption fields. Despite good drainage overall, limitations may stem from shallow bedrock, steep slopes, or seasonal conditions. Engineered or alternative systems are frequently required. Always get a professional perc test before purchasing land that needs septic.
Gardening & Agriculture
Well-drained soils on sloped terrain — good for most plants but watch for erosion. Terracing, contour planting, and mulching help retain moisture and topsoil. Drip irrigation is more effective than sprinklers on slopes.